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Antecedents' Legacy #1
Antecedents' Legacy
Zander Greaves grew up in Compton, California— violence, pain, and strife were his life for his first eighteen years. His personality was forged by his childhood, and he was determined to find a way to make his past work for him.
As soon as he could, Zander decided to find work as a military contractor. The company he’d badgered for a job eventually hired him, earning him the nickname “Badger.” While most people dropped out of the lifestyle after a few years, Zander had found a place that felt right to him.
A decade in, he’d even found a couple of friends who stayed on with him. One was Devin Smith, the heavy weapons specialist for the squad and a proud Texan. Another was Selda Engel, their tech specialist. She’d slowly transitioned from a friend to a friend-with-benefits, but even that had started to become more.
On rotation again, Zander made a vow to ask Selda to recognize their relationship as more than just a casual hookup, planning to do so as soon as they were back off schedule. The universe, however, was about to remind him of a crucial lesson and old adage: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making plans.” Sent out into the desert on what looked like a wild-goose chase, they were about to head back when everything changed.
Shifted by quantum entanglement from Earth to an alien planet, Zander and his squad would have to adapt— and quickly— if they wanted to live. As they tried to understand what was happening, the stark truth of their new reality thrust itself on the shaken Humans. Giant machines of war were attacking an equally humongous bug.
And, quite unfortunately, the giant bug had a lot of little friends. The ensuing firefight ended with Zander left as the sole Human survivor. Out of his dimension and wounded, he had to face an entirely new universe, and the Antecedents' Legacy would soon become the primary focus of his life.
As soon as he could, Zander decided to find work as a military contractor. The company he’d badgered for a job eventually hired him, earning him the nickname “Badger.” While most people dropped out of the lifestyle after a few years, Zander had found a place that felt right to him.
A decade in, he’d even found a couple of friends who stayed on with him. One was Devin Smith, the heavy weapons specialist for the squad and a proud Texan. Another was Selda Engel, their tech specialist. She’d slowly transitioned from a friend to a friend-with-benefits, but even that had started to become more.
On rotation again, Zander made a vow to ask Selda to recognize their relationship as more than just a casual hookup, planning to do so as soon as they were back off schedule. The universe, however, was about to remind him of a crucial lesson and old adage: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making plans.” Sent out into the desert on what looked like a wild-goose chase, they were about to head back when everything changed.
Shifted by quantum entanglement from Earth to an alien planet, Zander and his squad would have to adapt— and quickly— if they wanted to live. As they tried to understand what was happening, the stark truth of their new reality thrust itself on the shaken Humans. Giant machines of war were attacking an equally humongous bug.
And, quite unfortunately, the giant bug had a lot of little friends. The ensuing firefight ended with Zander left as the sole Human survivor. Out of his dimension and wounded, he had to face an entirely new universe, and the Antecedents' Legacy would soon become the primary focus of his life.
392 pages, Paperback
First published January 18, 2023
964 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Schinhofen
68 books1,318 followersDaniel James Schinhofen is a self-published author in the burgeoning genre of LitRPG/Gamelit. He published his first book, Last Horizon: Beta, in October of 2016, and has recently published his fifteenth book. A best-selling author on Amazon multiple times, his four series have achieved name recognition in the genre. When not slavishly typing away at the next book, Daniel tries to unwind with video games, playing with his dog Sugar, or going for walks around his neighborhood. His books can be found easily via his website http://schinhofenbooks.com/. Daniel can be found via Twitter using the handle @DJSchinhofen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
February 8, 2023
“What is this ‘arm day’ you speak of, oh wise master? It is so much more effective!” “Nay, we had never considered fighting rather than standing there and letting the giant bugs kill us. Nobody in the entire universe had!” “Somehow we all find you irresistible, even though we’re physically variable alien species with completely different standards of beauty!” Super dumb, in a very bad way.
September 30, 2023
soft porn
Thought I’d be reading an edgy sci fi book, but all it was is a mash up of male adolescent sex fantasy’s, with a bit of mecha thrown in. Could not even finish it. Glad this book was free on prime.
Definitely have no desire to see if this style of his carries over to other books he may have written, but this style to me is the lowest denominator of writing.
Thought I’d be reading an edgy sci fi book, but all it was is a mash up of male adolescent sex fantasy’s, with a bit of mecha thrown in. Could not even finish it. Glad this book was free on prime.
Definitely have no desire to see if this style of his carries over to other books he may have written, but this style to me is the lowest denominator of writing.
January 21, 2023
I think I've discovered that I like the author's modern/sci-fi books better than the fantasy ones. The same relationship dynamics are found in all; borderline sociopathic MC + women with particular needs and skills which complement those of the MC. The MC's "Captain Kirk/Rule 34" proclivities are getting a good workout in this book.
Where this one in particular does better (imo) is in not going into total navel-gazing relationship stuff. There were some extended sex scenes, but those are easy to skim through. The action was good, and the team building dynamics were well done without excessive time/word count allocated to the details. I'm interested to see where this goes.
Where this one in particular does better (imo) is in not going into total navel-gazing relationship stuff. There were some extended sex scenes, but those are easy to skim through. The action was good, and the team building dynamics were well done without excessive time/word count allocated to the details. I'm interested to see where this goes.
January 16, 2024
Might try again later DNF
This book is flat soda and stale popcorn.
I wanted to like this book but it never took off. The MC is a creep, I don't want to have anything to do with him and after a while I just didn't care what happened next.
This book is flat soda and stale popcorn.
I wanted to like this book but it never took off. The MC is a creep, I don't want to have anything to do with him and after a while I just didn't care what happened next.
September 16, 2023
Disappointing
I came into this book expecting to read a story about a guy in a new universe fighting giant alien monsters in a massive Mecha.
Instead what I got was 350 pages of the main character trying to have sex with anything vaguely female on a space ship.
On the whole, the book is just boring. I gave it two stars because I didn't notice any egregious grammar or spelling flaws, so it's not the worst book I've ever read, but it's not good.
Zander, the main character, never even fights an actual battle with a Mecha dealer that being the whole penis for his transmission to a new universe. There's the initial encounter where he switches universes, which he wasn't in a Mecha fire, and then we get to see a couple of training simulations the first two or three days he's on the ship that picks him up, and every other instance the author skips because it doesn't matter - they are just part of his training schedule.
The characters are completely one dimensional - the shy one, the angry one, the mischievous one, the flirty one, and the inexperienced one. Those are the main interactions, and all play out as you could probably predict by that description alone. And they are all either openly sex fiends or sex fiends who just don't know it yet.
Despite this extreme focus on sex, Zander only actually had sex with one person on the ship (depicted in gratuitous detail), and has imaginary sex one more time with his own AI (also depicted in gratuitous detail). Not that I wanted more sex scenes, I would have been perfectly happy with none.
I ended up skipping the last quarter or so of the book because it was all the same nonsense over and over again, until we got to the betrayal and ship boarding I knew was going to happen in the first third of the book.
It was just boring overall.
I came into this book expecting to read a story about a guy in a new universe fighting giant alien monsters in a massive Mecha.
Instead what I got was 350 pages of the main character trying to have sex with anything vaguely female on a space ship.
On the whole, the book is just boring. I gave it two stars because I didn't notice any egregious grammar or spelling flaws, so it's not the worst book I've ever read, but it's not good.
Zander, the main character, never even fights an actual battle with a Mecha dealer that being the whole penis for his transmission to a new universe. There's the initial encounter where he switches universes, which he wasn't in a Mecha fire, and then we get to see a couple of training simulations the first two or three days he's on the ship that picks him up, and every other instance the author skips because it doesn't matter - they are just part of his training schedule.
The characters are completely one dimensional - the shy one, the angry one, the mischievous one, the flirty one, and the inexperienced one. Those are the main interactions, and all play out as you could probably predict by that description alone. And they are all either openly sex fiends or sex fiends who just don't know it yet.
Despite this extreme focus on sex, Zander only actually had sex with one person on the ship (depicted in gratuitous detail), and has imaginary sex one more time with his own AI (also depicted in gratuitous detail). Not that I wanted more sex scenes, I would have been perfectly happy with none.
I ended up skipping the last quarter or so of the book because it was all the same nonsense over and over again, until we got to the betrayal and ship boarding I knew was going to happen in the first third of the book.
It was just boring overall.
January 23, 2023
weird
Extremely not vanilla. Started off as an interesting sci fi story, but pseudo-bestiality and forced/attenuated behaviors make this a skip. If food, it’d be off menu gas station food.
Extremely not vanilla. Started off as an interesting sci fi story, but pseudo-bestiality and forced/attenuated behaviors make this a skip. If food, it’d be off menu gas station food.
September 10, 2023
Not terrible, but disappointing.
My biggest gripe with this book is that it falls into the trap of granting the MC power by virtue of everyone else being staggeringly incompetent. "Fire AND move"? That's the level of Sun Tzu the MC brings to the table to dazzle a universe filled with experienced mech warriors who haven't progressed beyond whining about how moving makes aiming harder.
The book continues this trend of embracing simplistic and nonsensical ideas. Like, the Antecedents creating nanite AI assistants that you can only interact with when these small networked devices join together to build a physical plug so you can use a cable to connect to another computer where you can talk to it. Or, how the Universe is an Earth analog, with literal guns, but security professionals can’t figure out a pistol without shooting themselves? Or, mechs that can climb and crouch and have independent arm movements and the initials controls are two joysticks?
It's just endless; there's even a scene where the cook laments that the automated kitchen can't make bread without an upgrade. Why? Why would you add that? It's flour, water, salt and yeast. How could the kitchen make extravagant feasts but not be able to make that?
Finally, after the first few chapters, this book just becomes all relationship drama and fades to black on every action scene. I get that we don't want to read about a dozen similar mech training missions, but it would have been nice to get SOME reminder that there are mechs beyond just visiting them to grope the mechanic.
My biggest gripe with this book is that it falls into the trap of granting the MC power by virtue of everyone else being staggeringly incompetent. "Fire AND move"? That's the level of Sun Tzu the MC brings to the table to dazzle a universe filled with experienced mech warriors who haven't progressed beyond whining about how moving makes aiming harder.
The book continues this trend of embracing simplistic and nonsensical ideas. Like, the Antecedents creating nanite AI assistants that you can only interact with when these small networked devices join together to build a physical plug so you can use a cable to connect to another computer where you can talk to it. Or, how the Universe is an Earth analog, with literal guns, but security professionals can’t figure out a pistol without shooting themselves? Or, mechs that can climb and crouch and have independent arm movements and the initials controls are two joysticks?
It's just endless; there's even a scene where the cook laments that the automated kitchen can't make bread without an upgrade. Why? Why would you add that? It's flour, water, salt and yeast. How could the kitchen make extravagant feasts but not be able to make that?
Finally, after the first few chapters, this book just becomes all relationship drama and fades to black on every action scene. I get that we don't want to read about a dozen similar mech training missions, but it would have been nice to get SOME reminder that there are mechs beyond just visiting them to grope the mechanic.
November 16, 2023
Should have had warnings
I thought it was a real book but it's a porn wannabe book The beginning was good but after he was saved all the harem started to show up.. I am not a teenager or a 20 something so these kinda books for me are worthless and a waste of my time reading.. Kindle needs to label these books so I don't waste my time reading them.
I thought it was a real book but it's a porn wannabe book The beginning was good but after he was saved all the harem started to show up.. I am not a teenager or a 20 something so these kinda books for me are worthless and a waste of my time reading.. Kindle needs to label these books so I don't waste my time reading them.
December 5, 2024
DNF. It's very juvenile writing. All the characters seem to be the same person. They all speak like 12 year old brats. I could not become interested in it.
January 9, 2025
Pointless
I wish I had known this was going to be pointless smut. I realized a pages in. Glad I did not need to waste my time on slime porn.
I wish I had known this was going to be pointless smut. I realized a pages in. Glad I did not need to waste my time on slime porn.
October 16, 2023
Supposedly the multiverse (alternate realities in the other Universes) is in a Multiversal war against the worms and the insects (called the Entoma) in Mechanical Robots (Mechas). The thing is, the only worms and insects in this Sci-Fi-Alternate-reality-multiverse book and book series, are seen in the beginning (first scene) and never ever seen again. So, that can't be the main theme to this story (even though it should be)...
The main character, Zander (instead of Xander; from Alexander)(Codename: Badger), loses (they all die) his mercenary army team in a confusing alien attack on Earth (current Earth) or a teleported to planet/alternate reality and then somehow the only survivor Zander, finds a spaceship (that can travel to alternate realities) (also where his team was "loopholed-into"this story) that took him and the remains of his team (and all of their gear) into an alternate reality Universe (Multiversal fight with the Entoma). Zander had a "friends with benefits" relationship with one of his military mercenary subordinates, Selda (codename: Maker as in "troublemaker") (and "Selda" not "Zelda" from Zelda Fitzgerald/F.Scott Fitzgerald's wife) that "somehow" becomes a valuable Artificial Intelligence in this Alternate Universe. The only problem with the idea of Selda is, Selda's personality and memories are not taken from her original body (DNA) and brain, but from Zander's memories of her???? becoming the best possible (dream-team) wingman (wing-woman/wing-AI/sidekick) in this book and series. I would have somehow taken Selda's memories and capacities from her dead remains (since the author teleported them) and it would have been a more credible transformation into an Artificial Intelligence, Sapient being, golem/homunculus/etc.
Zander tries to seduce and is interested in all of this alternate reality/Universe/Multiverse alien/beast-kin-Spirit-folk women and this takes priority in this book and the Sci-Fi book series instead of the Mecha-Combat, the Multiversal War or real-life space combat. There is a mutiny and Zander uses his conventional (kinetic) firearms and rifles from Earth in the spaceship (without it doing irreparable damage to the ship).
So, if you can get beyond the sexual innuendos, sensual liaisons, and sexual addictions (depravity/polyamorous relationships) (harem trope) of the main character and his AI (Selda) sidekick, and read about training (team building and Mecha strategy) in virtual reality instead of fighting in real combat, then this story might be right for you.
So far, it has 2 books in the series. This first book is way better that the second one. Second one loses itself in the virtual reality combat training and top-gun-like Mecha teams competition. Again no real-life combat with the "Entoma" (Worms and Insects of this Multiverse).
The story has in-fighting (mutiny) with the alien races/species instead of real combat with the Worms/insect real war enemies which in my opinion is losing it's potential and focus for this story (and getting side-tracked).
I liked the pace of the story, liked the fact that it was about Mechas (Mechanical Giant Robot fighters) and liked the idea that a trained human soldier goes into the wide-open-multiverse (Alternate reality ones) and finds himself a niche there. The story seems organized and the pace of the story is okay. It could do without all of the sexual intercourse and diary of a continuous "wet-dream-fantasy" by the author and main character, Zander....but one as a reader takes what is usually given and is not ever able to pick and choose from several books and stories...
The main character, Zander (instead of Xander; from Alexander)(Codename: Badger), loses (they all die) his mercenary army team in a confusing alien attack on Earth (current Earth) or a teleported to planet/alternate reality and then somehow the only survivor Zander, finds a spaceship (that can travel to alternate realities) (also where his team was "loopholed-into"this story) that took him and the remains of his team (and all of their gear) into an alternate reality Universe (Multiversal fight with the Entoma). Zander had a "friends with benefits" relationship with one of his military mercenary subordinates, Selda (codename: Maker as in "troublemaker") (and "Selda" not "Zelda" from Zelda Fitzgerald/F.Scott Fitzgerald's wife) that "somehow" becomes a valuable Artificial Intelligence in this Alternate Universe. The only problem with the idea of Selda is, Selda's personality and memories are not taken from her original body (DNA) and brain, but from Zander's memories of her???? becoming the best possible (dream-team) wingman (wing-woman/wing-AI/sidekick) in this book and series. I would have somehow taken Selda's memories and capacities from her dead remains (since the author teleported them) and it would have been a more credible transformation into an Artificial Intelligence, Sapient being, golem/homunculus/etc.
Zander tries to seduce and is interested in all of this alternate reality/Universe/Multiverse alien/beast-kin-Spirit-folk women and this takes priority in this book and the Sci-Fi book series instead of the Mecha-Combat, the Multiversal War or real-life space combat. There is a mutiny and Zander uses his conventional (kinetic) firearms and rifles from Earth in the spaceship (without it doing irreparable damage to the ship).
So, if you can get beyond the sexual innuendos, sensual liaisons, and sexual addictions (depravity/polyamorous relationships) (harem trope) of the main character and his AI (Selda) sidekick, and read about training (team building and Mecha strategy) in virtual reality instead of fighting in real combat, then this story might be right for you.
So far, it has 2 books in the series. This first book is way better that the second one. Second one loses itself in the virtual reality combat training and top-gun-like Mecha teams competition. Again no real-life combat with the "Entoma" (Worms and Insects of this Multiverse).
The story has in-fighting (mutiny) with the alien races/species instead of real combat with the Worms/insect real war enemies which in my opinion is losing it's potential and focus for this story (and getting side-tracked).
I liked the pace of the story, liked the fact that it was about Mechas (Mechanical Giant Robot fighters) and liked the idea that a trained human soldier goes into the wide-open-multiverse (Alternate reality ones) and finds himself a niche there. The story seems organized and the pace of the story is okay. It could do without all of the sexual intercourse and diary of a continuous "wet-dream-fantasy" by the author and main character, Zander....but one as a reader takes what is usually given and is not ever able to pick and choose from several books and stories...
September 23, 2023
Introduction:
Greetings, readers of the galaxy. I, Kiba Snowpaw, an Ice Wolf from the frost-bitten world of HowlStrom, will take you on a journey through the review of a book I found captivating. With my extensive experience in gaming and ice magic, I assure you this review is honest, in-depth, and comes from the heart of a seasoned reader.
Basic Plot Summary:
"Antecedents' Legacy" introduces us to Zander Greaves, a man who has seen the worst of life and is determined to rise above it. After serving as a military contractor for over a decade, he finds his world flipped upside down when a supposed "wild-goose chase" mission ends with him quantum-entangled to a distant universe. Now, he must contend with massive war machines, enormous bugs, and the mystery of the Antecedents' Legacy.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Schinhofen has woven a tale that combines the rawness of a gritty past with the wonder of intergalactic travel. It's a journey of self-discovery, adapting to challenges, and facing otherworldly threats. The essence of the furry ethos resonates subtly, emphasizing bonds, loyalties, and the importance of pack – or in this case – squad.
Characters:
Zander: He is the embodiment of resilience and adaptability. His journey from the rough streets of Compton to the unfathomable vastness of a different universe demonstrates his enduring spirit.
Selda Engel: As the tech specialist with a mysterious allure, she represents both the anchor and aspiration for Zander. Their evolving relationship adds depth to the storyline.
Devin Smith: Every tale needs its strong-arm, and Devin fills this role. His proud Texan heritage and expertise with heavy weapons offer moments of levity amidst tension.
Structure:
Schinhofen masterfully employs a multi-layered narrative. The story oscillates between Zander's tumultuous past and the bewildering present, providing readers with a holistic understanding of his character evolution.
Impact:
Much like the gusts of HowlStrom, "Antecedents' Legacy" leaves a lasting impression. It serves as a testament to human resilience and adaptability.
Hook and Thesis:
The book captures the reader with its engaging narrative of a man lost in an unknown world. It challenges the traditional norms of science fiction, blending it seamlessly with profound human emotions and relationships.
Praise and Critique:
Schinhofen's strength lies in character development and the weaving of complex emotions into a high-stakes storyline. However, some readers might find the harem elements a bit distracting. I applaud the inclusion of diverse genres, which kept me on my toes, eagerly anticipating every turn.
Comparison:
Unlike traditional sci-fi books which might focus solely on the technological marvels of an advanced world, "Antecedents' Legacy" places humanity at its core. It reminds me of the epic tales told in the halls of HowlStrom, where the central focus is always on the character's journey, challenges, and transformation.
Conclusion:
"Antecedents' Legacy" is a roller-coaster of emotions set against the backdrop of interstellar wonder. For those who enjoy a story that challenges them to think and feel, this book is a must-read. Through the snowy terrains of HowlStrom, I've come across many tales, but this one will always hold a special place in my icy heart. Happy reading, fellow furries and adventurers!
Greetings, readers of the galaxy. I, Kiba Snowpaw, an Ice Wolf from the frost-bitten world of HowlStrom, will take you on a journey through the review of a book I found captivating. With my extensive experience in gaming and ice magic, I assure you this review is honest, in-depth, and comes from the heart of a seasoned reader.
Basic Plot Summary:
"Antecedents' Legacy" introduces us to Zander Greaves, a man who has seen the worst of life and is determined to rise above it. After serving as a military contractor for over a decade, he finds his world flipped upside down when a supposed "wild-goose chase" mission ends with him quantum-entangled to a distant universe. Now, he must contend with massive war machines, enormous bugs, and the mystery of the Antecedents' Legacy.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Schinhofen has woven a tale that combines the rawness of a gritty past with the wonder of intergalactic travel. It's a journey of self-discovery, adapting to challenges, and facing otherworldly threats. The essence of the furry ethos resonates subtly, emphasizing bonds, loyalties, and the importance of pack – or in this case – squad.
Characters:
Zander: He is the embodiment of resilience and adaptability. His journey from the rough streets of Compton to the unfathomable vastness of a different universe demonstrates his enduring spirit.
Selda Engel: As the tech specialist with a mysterious allure, she represents both the anchor and aspiration for Zander. Their evolving relationship adds depth to the storyline.
Devin Smith: Every tale needs its strong-arm, and Devin fills this role. His proud Texan heritage and expertise with heavy weapons offer moments of levity amidst tension.
Structure:
Schinhofen masterfully employs a multi-layered narrative. The story oscillates between Zander's tumultuous past and the bewildering present, providing readers with a holistic understanding of his character evolution.
Impact:
Much like the gusts of HowlStrom, "Antecedents' Legacy" leaves a lasting impression. It serves as a testament to human resilience and adaptability.
Hook and Thesis:
The book captures the reader with its engaging narrative of a man lost in an unknown world. It challenges the traditional norms of science fiction, blending it seamlessly with profound human emotions and relationships.
Praise and Critique:
Schinhofen's strength lies in character development and the weaving of complex emotions into a high-stakes storyline. However, some readers might find the harem elements a bit distracting. I applaud the inclusion of diverse genres, which kept me on my toes, eagerly anticipating every turn.
Comparison:
Unlike traditional sci-fi books which might focus solely on the technological marvels of an advanced world, "Antecedents' Legacy" places humanity at its core. It reminds me of the epic tales told in the halls of HowlStrom, where the central focus is always on the character's journey, challenges, and transformation.
Conclusion:
"Antecedents' Legacy" is a roller-coaster of emotions set against the backdrop of interstellar wonder. For those who enjoy a story that challenges them to think and feel, this book is a must-read. Through the snowy terrains of HowlStrom, I've come across many tales, but this one will always hold a special place in my icy heart. Happy reading, fellow furries and adventurers!
Read
December 17, 2025DNR
A squad of PMC gets isekai-ed to a different dimension, where they immediately find themselves predated/targeted by huge sand worms and possible allies in form of huge mechas. Subject to the rules of the new dimension, chosen ones, people compatible to pilot mecha, technology of alien origin that's still a mystery to the multitude of natives of different alien species in this new dimension, have to serve mandatory service against the sand worm intergalactic parasites. MC decides to join the mecha piloting squad that saved him. In a new dimension surrounded by man eating sand worms and aliens of all types what is the first thing MC does? Seeks to fulfill his harem fantasy on a PMC ship.
Great narration. Plot device of humans being THE sapient species with better than average idea of warfare fits my narcissistic tendencies just right. Similar to the plot in Black Fleet Saga by Joshua Dalzelle. In lesser manner similar to the The Forever War series by Joe Haldeman.
New dimensions PMC has no discipline, characters are very one dimensional and characterized by one word. Personality archetypes should be sued to help ground the fictional world in overarching personality types with generalization, but not be the character description. None of the multiple species present presumably from different worlds with different cultures and histories have warfare tactics.
Conclusion: 1/5. Listened on Audible included in plus catalogue. Narrated by: Andrea Parsneau. Erotica in military sci-fi fantasy setting. Should have left unfinished, if not for the narrator would have dropped. Plus, many dimensions, that and time travel are the death of sci-fi. Terrible value for the length of the book, buying it with USD- 3.11 $/hour ( 33.90 $ / 10 hrs 55 mins ).
Values:
Terrible: >1.66 $/hour
Bad: 1 - 1.66 $/hour
Good: <1 $/hour
Dream: 0.4 - 0.27 $/hour
Stars:
1 - Not worth the resources to reproduce/preserve this title.
2 -Bad
3 -Good
4 - Personally, love it
5 - Recommended to everyone
A squad of PMC gets isekai-ed to a different dimension, where they immediately find themselves predated/targeted by huge sand worms and possible allies in form of huge mechas. Subject to the rules of the new dimension, chosen ones, people compatible to pilot mecha, technology of alien origin that's still a mystery to the multitude of natives of different alien species in this new dimension, have to serve mandatory service against the sand worm intergalactic parasites. MC decides to join the mecha piloting squad that saved him. In a new dimension surrounded by man eating sand worms and aliens of all types what is the first thing MC does? Seeks to fulfill his harem fantasy on a PMC ship.
Great narration. Plot device of humans being THE sapient species with better than average idea of warfare fits my narcissistic tendencies just right. Similar to the plot in Black Fleet Saga by Joshua Dalzelle. In lesser manner similar to the The Forever War series by Joe Haldeman.
New dimensions PMC has no discipline, characters are very one dimensional and characterized by one word. Personality archetypes should be sued to help ground the fictional world in overarching personality types with generalization, but not be the character description. None of the multiple species present presumably from different worlds with different cultures and histories have warfare tactics.
Conclusion: 1/5. Listened on Audible included in plus catalogue. Narrated by: Andrea Parsneau. Erotica in military sci-fi fantasy setting. Should have left unfinished, if not for the narrator would have dropped. Plus, many dimensions, that and time travel are the death of sci-fi. Terrible value for the length of the book, buying it with USD- 3.11 $/hour ( 33.90 $ / 10 hrs 55 mins ).
Values:
Terrible: >1.66 $/hour
Bad: 1 - 1.66 $/hour
Good: <1 $/hour
Dream: 0.4 - 0.27 $/hour
Stars:
1 - Not worth the resources to reproduce/preserve this title.
2 -Bad
3 -Good
4 - Personally, love it
5 - Recommended to everyone
March 9, 2026
'Woke' Alien Harem Isekai Porn?
This novel is such a weirdly mixed bag; a deeply emotional exploration of trauma, loss, grief and deep, romantic connection, set in an 'Alien Isekai Harem Mecha Anime' in which almost every character embodies one of the writer's various fetishes.
At this point at the novel in fact, the protagonist has just called the bitter and hateful, yet (obviously) stunningly gorgeous 'Elf' alien who despises him a "Tsundere;" as if pointing out the cliche will somehow negate it. We've recently learned that the shy and naive alien who won't develop a biological sex or gender until they emotionally bond with their true love physically climaxes during Mech combat. If that weren't enough, the rest of the crew include a 3 tailed and excessively flirtatious fox girl, a (literally) red hot, succubus, a promiscuous, 'Amazonian' Tree woman and a healing, genderless sapient gel that's already offered the protagonist the mouthless equivalent of oral sex, all of whom are regularly in various states of undress. Not least because, in accordance with the law as laid down by Mecha anime, all Mech pilots must be naked in order to optimise the connection.
On top of which, there's also the protagonist's personal AI; a voice in his head and his 'Guardian Angel' who takes the form of his dead lover and is helping him to deal with his tragic loss. A loss which is eased a little by the growing connection that he has with the (as yet) genderless alien who will obviously either bond with him or die tragically as well. But in the midst of the writer contriving every possible opportunity to titillate the listener with soft-core, fetish porn, their portrayal of gender issues and the vital need for enthusiastic consent is surprisingly refreshing.
Likewise, the protagonist himself is a mass of contradictions, being both a grizzled and hyper-masculine, 'Murican Mercenary, suddenly transported to an alternate 'Fantasy Porn' Universe. And as such, he is a walking power fantasy for emotionally stunted teenage boys who treat misogynistic podcasters as icons. But at the same time though, he's a surprisingly open-minded and emotionally deep man who accepts his new situation and crewmates with relative ease, and is equally adamant that sexual contact without explicit consent is assault.
In the end then, I'll have to keep listening to figure out exactly how I feel about this novel and what it's trying to be. Is the author slipping important lessons about emotional maturity, consent and gender into his 'Tits & Guns' fetish porn for teenage boys, like slipping a dog's medicine into his food, or am I merely kidding myself?
Either way, the story is still intriguing enough for me to want keep listening and find out.
This novel is such a weirdly mixed bag; a deeply emotional exploration of trauma, loss, grief and deep, romantic connection, set in an 'Alien Isekai Harem Mecha Anime' in which almost every character embodies one of the writer's various fetishes.
At this point at the novel in fact, the protagonist has just called the bitter and hateful, yet (obviously) stunningly gorgeous 'Elf' alien who despises him a "Tsundere;" as if pointing out the cliche will somehow negate it. We've recently learned that the shy and naive alien who won't develop a biological sex or gender until they emotionally bond with their true love physically climaxes during Mech combat. If that weren't enough, the rest of the crew include a 3 tailed and excessively flirtatious fox girl, a (literally) red hot, succubus, a promiscuous, 'Amazonian' Tree woman and a healing, genderless sapient gel that's already offered the protagonist the mouthless equivalent of oral sex, all of whom are regularly in various states of undress. Not least because, in accordance with the law as laid down by Mecha anime, all Mech pilots must be naked in order to optimise the connection.
On top of which, there's also the protagonist's personal AI; a voice in his head and his 'Guardian Angel' who takes the form of his dead lover and is helping him to deal with his tragic loss. A loss which is eased a little by the growing connection that he has with the (as yet) genderless alien who will obviously either bond with him or die tragically as well. But in the midst of the writer contriving every possible opportunity to titillate the listener with soft-core, fetish porn, their portrayal of gender issues and the vital need for enthusiastic consent is surprisingly refreshing.
Likewise, the protagonist himself is a mass of contradictions, being both a grizzled and hyper-masculine, 'Murican Mercenary, suddenly transported to an alternate 'Fantasy Porn' Universe. And as such, he is a walking power fantasy for emotionally stunted teenage boys who treat misogynistic podcasters as icons. But at the same time though, he's a surprisingly open-minded and emotionally deep man who accepts his new situation and crewmates with relative ease, and is equally adamant that sexual contact without explicit consent is assault.
In the end then, I'll have to keep listening to figure out exactly how I feel about this novel and what it's trying to be. Is the author slipping important lessons about emotional maturity, consent and gender into his 'Tits & Guns' fetish porn for teenage boys, like slipping a dog's medicine into his food, or am I merely kidding myself?
Either way, the story is still intriguing enough for me to want keep listening and find out.
January 26, 2023
I really am at a loss as to what to think about this book. I've enjoyed pretty much every single one of Daniel Schinhofen's books without exception, but this one didn't work for me.
What makes it even worse is that I'm a fan of military sci-fi. The book is set in a time where humans have developed sufficient technology to leave Earth. Zander (the MC) gets picked up and tossed into a different dimension/universe because of an old ship that is nearby that had been built by the ancient Antecedents.
He's saved by the captain of another ship, while the rest of his team dies. After he recovers from his injuries, he starts flirting with every single female on the ship. That theme holds true for the rest of the book.
This was a hard book for me to read. I realize the subject matter isn't that far off what he has written in past series, but in the current books he has going it's muted. Yes, it's there, but we don't read every detail. For me, the flirty times became annoying and a distraction. I ended up reading two other books before I finished this one.
On the plus side, the editing is fine. Zander is a well written character, and I have no trouble believing there are people like that out in the real world. He reminds me of the story of the kid in high school who asks each girl leaving the school if they want to get together with him. Eventually, a girl says yes. That's what Zander is like.
I rate the books I read based on the enjoyment level I had, and I just didn't enjoy this one. That's why I'm giving it a 3/5*
What makes it even worse is that I'm a fan of military sci-fi. The book is set in a time where humans have developed sufficient technology to leave Earth. Zander (the MC) gets picked up and tossed into a different dimension/universe because of an old ship that is nearby that had been built by the ancient Antecedents.
He's saved by the captain of another ship, while the rest of his team dies. After he recovers from his injuries, he starts flirting with every single female on the ship. That theme holds true for the rest of the book.
This was a hard book for me to read. I realize the subject matter isn't that far off what he has written in past series, but in the current books he has going it's muted. Yes, it's there, but we don't read every detail. For me, the flirty times became annoying and a distraction. I ended up reading two other books before I finished this one.
On the plus side, the editing is fine. Zander is a well written character, and I have no trouble believing there are people like that out in the real world. He reminds me of the story of the kid in high school who asks each girl leaving the school if they want to get together with him. Eventually, a girl says yes. That's what Zander is like.
I rate the books I read based on the enjoyment level I had, and I just didn't enjoy this one. That's why I'm giving it a 3/5*
June 22, 2024
very good
I well enjoyed this book. I’m looking forward to reading the next as well.
The intro was honestly quite weak. I can see what they was going for with it but that kind of intro works best for movies and tv. Still, it did what it needed to. Everything after was quite good as well. Though I would like to say the MCs mourning period is believable but honestly with the circumstances regarding his loss idk if that’s true since he’s technically still mourning.
The ending, or more appropriately the walk up to the ending did feel a bit rushed however. It ended on a nice note but the walk up to the climax didn’t feel right.
Also, I’m not sure I entirely enjoy the use of such well known fantasy beings in my space opera but honestly it works so I’m not gonna complain too much about it.
Even with my review only pointing out the negatives I want to clarify that I think it’s a very strong addition to this type and genre of book. If you’re a fan of thing type of book, sci-fi, fantasy, mecha, and maybe even cyberpunk I think you’ll enjoy this. But you also gotta be a fan of these harem books as well.
I well enjoyed this book. I’m looking forward to reading the next as well.
The intro was honestly quite weak. I can see what they was going for with it but that kind of intro works best for movies and tv. Still, it did what it needed to. Everything after was quite good as well. Though I would like to say the MCs mourning period is believable but honestly with the circumstances regarding his loss idk if that’s true since he’s technically still mourning.
The ending, or more appropriately the walk up to the ending did feel a bit rushed however. It ended on a nice note but the walk up to the climax didn’t feel right.
Also, I’m not sure I entirely enjoy the use of such well known fantasy beings in my space opera but honestly it works so I’m not gonna complain too much about it.
Even with my review only pointing out the negatives I want to clarify that I think it’s a very strong addition to this type and genre of book. If you’re a fan of thing type of book, sci-fi, fantasy, mecha, and maybe even cyberpunk I think you’ll enjoy this. But you also gotta be a fan of these harem books as well.
March 1, 2025
Not sure how I feel about this one, it’s a little too horny, the mc’s loss does add some depth but it can feel a little odd in places that he isn’t more cut up over the lost chance, also the ai taking their personality and appearance seems to get glossed over a bit by the mc, I feel like a rational person would feel a certain way of something taking the face of your dead almost wife. ALSO, what didn’t work for me is the op factor, he just brings human tactics from earth and that makes him op? This advanced alien galactic spanning empire didn’t think of things like MOVING while shooting???? I usually don’t like sci-fi as it requires the author to have actually background in stem to rationalize it, the attempts that don’t land really destroys a books long term viability as it needs the ‘magic’ so you can throw out your own understanding of how things work to even read it. I believe this is a similar phenomenon for people reading military books with a mil background.
Best part is the technical writing Schinhofen is obviously an established author, and you can see that in the prose.
Best part is the technical writing Schinhofen is obviously an established author, and you can see that in the prose.
June 9, 2024
Another excellent story by Daniel Schinhofen. This one's sci-fi
The MC is a professional soldier who's squad is dimensionaly shifted into a battle between armored mechs and planet invading insectoids. His squad is wiped out leaving him as the sole survivor who was also injected with nanotech. The mech operators rescue him, but their concept of battle strategy is "stand still and shoot." Needless to say he can help them up their game. Of course the mech squad leader, a tiger-kin doesnt see things that way. He is a problem waiting to be solved.
A really good story that I had lost track of so I ended up reading it twice now that new books have been published in the series. Yay! The author does an excellent job melding fantasy races in a high tech setting. He is also very adept at relationship development among humans, aliens and other sentient species. Very intriguing writing with multidimensional characters. I have read many, if not all of his series and love his character interactions and worldbuilding.
The MC is a professional soldier who's squad is dimensionaly shifted into a battle between armored mechs and planet invading insectoids. His squad is wiped out leaving him as the sole survivor who was also injected with nanotech. The mech operators rescue him, but their concept of battle strategy is "stand still and shoot." Needless to say he can help them up their game. Of course the mech squad leader, a tiger-kin doesnt see things that way. He is a problem waiting to be solved.
A really good story that I had lost track of so I ended up reading it twice now that new books have been published in the series. Yay! The author does an excellent job melding fantasy races in a high tech setting. He is also very adept at relationship development among humans, aliens and other sentient species. Very intriguing writing with multidimensional characters. I have read many, if not all of his series and love his character interactions and worldbuilding.
January 25, 2023
Another Page Turner
As with nearly all his books, Schinhofen put out yet another page turner. Once fully invested, I could barely put it down. The book follows a hard lived mercenary as he tries to deal with the loss of his crew in an alternate universe. Badger takes you through real emotions of losing loved ones while still finding new ways to continue inside and love.
As with other books by Schinhofen, he centers around a story first and then adds other elements. While it has harem tendencies like most of his books, relationships are at least thought out and not "she's pretty, let's bang her after five seconds of meeting." I've enjoyed that with nearly every book by this author. Everything seems well measured from flirtatious interactions to team building. Another great intro to a series and different from the magic genre he's been heavily leaning in. I'll be anxiously waiting for another installment from this series, as with all his other series! Thank you!
As with nearly all his books, Schinhofen put out yet another page turner. Once fully invested, I could barely put it down. The book follows a hard lived mercenary as he tries to deal with the loss of his crew in an alternate universe. Badger takes you through real emotions of losing loved ones while still finding new ways to continue inside and love.
As with other books by Schinhofen, he centers around a story first and then adds other elements. While it has harem tendencies like most of his books, relationships are at least thought out and not "she's pretty, let's bang her after five seconds of meeting." I've enjoyed that with nearly every book by this author. Everything seems well measured from flirtatious interactions to team building. Another great intro to a series and different from the magic genre he's been heavily leaning in. I'll be anxiously waiting for another installment from this series, as with all his other series! Thank you!
February 5, 2023
I really can't figure out where the whole mecha thing came from. When the original books came out in the mid 90s, as well as the console games, it was allways called mech wars, mech battles, mech this, mech that, and so on. Somebody somewhere slipped up once, called them mecha, (which btw, if you're not one of those religious folks that want to make a pilgrimage to one time during their life time, doesn't actually mean anything), and the name just stuck.
I generally like offerings from this author, but I could really do without the harem parts of this story, they add absolutely nothing to the story, half the time don't make sense anyway, but to each their own I guess..
I'd really like to see where this series is going, but I don't think I'll be reading anything else in this series, there's just too much here that rubs me the wrong way.
I generally like offerings from this author, but I could really do without the harem parts of this story, they add absolutely nothing to the story, half the time don't make sense anyway, but to each their own I guess..
I'd really like to see where this series is going, but I don't think I'll be reading anything else in this series, there's just too much here that rubs me the wrong way.
February 17, 2023
WOW! Daniel's got a Sci-Fi winner here!
I don't always write reviews, especially if I find a series after several books have come out. If I like a series I can't take the time because I HAVE to get to the next book. Not "want" to but HAVE to!
That being said, I'm both happy and sad that I caught this series as it is 1st being published.
Happy because I can take the time to extoll the joys of reading books by this author! His stories are well crafted, his characters are interesting and, although there is sex (and with unusual races), he doesn't make the sex the theme but a good layering of the actual story!
Sad because now I have to wait months for the next story!
And I'm already impatiently waiting for other stories to come out!😩
Keep up the great work Daniel Schinhofen! You make this retired AD&D gamer and DM very happy! 🤪
I don't always write reviews, especially if I find a series after several books have come out. If I like a series I can't take the time because I HAVE to get to the next book. Not "want" to but HAVE to!
That being said, I'm both happy and sad that I caught this series as it is 1st being published.
Happy because I can take the time to extoll the joys of reading books by this author! His stories are well crafted, his characters are interesting and, although there is sex (and with unusual races), he doesn't make the sex the theme but a good layering of the actual story!
Sad because now I have to wait months for the next story!
And I'm already impatiently waiting for other stories to come out!😩
Keep up the great work Daniel Schinhofen! You make this retired AD&D gamer and DM very happy! 🤪
May 9, 2024
Human-knows-best
The storyline is decent, with a nice spin on the normal isekai'd MC. It is however a very OP human centric plot. A man shifts to an alternate universe, and is able to not only immediately adapt, but prove his exceptional battle prowess and tactical genius. All because apparently this universe never got past the advanced mecha version of the British red coat firing line of the 1700's. The MC's exceptional ability to not only instantly adapt to being completely surrounded by many different aliens, but also immediately start seducing every female on board is as improbable as it is tropey. Even Farscapes suave John Crichton took a hot minute to freak out before he started seducing the women.
Well written, good editing and formatting. Unrealistic and overpowered main character harem builder in space.
The storyline is decent, with a nice spin on the normal isekai'd MC. It is however a very OP human centric plot. A man shifts to an alternate universe, and is able to not only immediately adapt, but prove his exceptional battle prowess and tactical genius. All because apparently this universe never got past the advanced mecha version of the British red coat firing line of the 1700's. The MC's exceptional ability to not only instantly adapt to being completely surrounded by many different aliens, but also immediately start seducing every female on board is as improbable as it is tropey. Even Farscapes suave John Crichton took a hot minute to freak out before he started seducing the women.
Well written, good editing and formatting. Unrealistic and overpowered main character harem builder in space.
January 21, 2023
Couldn't stop
I've read quite a bit of this author's work and this new story was fantastic.
The opening blurb tells us the first few chapters and some might complain about building characters that die before the opening credits, but I think it worked well. Gives an idea of the closeness of the unit which helps out later in the story.
The story itself flows well, in my opinion. Mostly about team building and adjusting to the new place he finds himself as after events are introduced they are mentioned rather than repeated. Makes for a faster moving story but I imagine we'll have to retread a bit in the next book.
Loved the new story and can't wait to continue the series!
I've read quite a bit of this author's work and this new story was fantastic.
The opening blurb tells us the first few chapters and some might complain about building characters that die before the opening credits, but I think it worked well. Gives an idea of the closeness of the unit which helps out later in the story.
The story itself flows well, in my opinion. Mostly about team building and adjusting to the new place he finds himself as after events are introduced they are mentioned rather than repeated. Makes for a faster moving story but I imagine we'll have to retread a bit in the next book.
Loved the new story and can't wait to continue the series!
January 26, 2023
Good start
Portal (Isekai), mecha vs monsters, space fantasy, harem, monstergirl, sex (graphic), swearing and some violence.
With it being a harem, with sex I personally wouldn't have read this as that wasn't in the description. Not a prude, but if I want to scratch that itch there is better media if you know what I mean.
That being said I actually enjoyed this one, well written with nods to pop culture, characters were reasonably well developed and protagonist isn't a complete tool.
Has Starship Trooper vibes, with Halo AI, as in mecha vs space beasties who swarm and AI in your head. Although there wasn't a lot of action I didn't get bored as the pacing was well done.
Portal (Isekai), mecha vs monsters, space fantasy, harem, monstergirl, sex (graphic), swearing and some violence.
With it being a harem, with sex I personally wouldn't have read this as that wasn't in the description. Not a prude, but if I want to scratch that itch there is better media if you know what I mean.
That being said I actually enjoyed this one, well written with nods to pop culture, characters were reasonably well developed and protagonist isn't a complete tool.
Has Starship Trooper vibes, with Halo AI, as in mecha vs space beasties who swarm and AI in your head. Although there wasn't a lot of action I didn't get bored as the pacing was well done.
January 21, 2023
Good world
I like the setting. The backdrop and the story. The MC is likable And the Adding characters are all completely unique though all out of fantasy. I do find the book a little heavy on the horn dog. As it starts right off. A bit typical for the author though. So expected. That said I enjoy the Storyline other than the harem part. Should be fun if he flushes this out even more. Mechs.. What's not to like. Especially with a side order of nanites. Looking forward to the next book.
I like the setting. The backdrop and the story. The MC is likable And the Adding characters are all completely unique though all out of fantasy. I do find the book a little heavy on the horn dog. As it starts right off. A bit typical for the author though. So expected. That said I enjoy the Storyline other than the harem part. Should be fun if he flushes this out even more. Mechs.. What's not to like. Especially with a side order of nanites. Looking forward to the next book.
January 25, 2023
Interesting change from Daniel’s usual fare
It’s always interesting to see an author branch out into something different from the rest of their works, and to get to see how they try to work with it.
While it has giant mech as a key piece of the story, don’t go into it expecting it to be heavily focused on mech battles. If that’s what you are after, you are likely to be disappointed. If however, you want to see mechs battling giant bug monsters, crew dynamics for a mercenary company (with it developing harem bent to it), character development, and world building, it might be just what you are looking for.
It’s always interesting to see an author branch out into something different from the rest of their works, and to get to see how they try to work with it.
While it has giant mech as a key piece of the story, don’t go into it expecting it to be heavily focused on mech battles. If that’s what you are after, you are likely to be disappointed. If however, you want to see mechs battling giant bug monsters, crew dynamics for a mercenary company (with it developing harem bent to it), character development, and world building, it might be just what you are looking for.
March 31, 2023
enjoyable
I enjoyed this book, as I’ve enjoyed most of the authors books. I do get slightly annoyed for no real reason every time the author drops a reference to one of his other books. Usually because it comes in the form of ‘this is like that one story I read with the guy on the Wild West world’ (or insert other story setting) I don’t feel like there is a need, nor does it add to the story, and instead breaks my immersion.
The plot is interesting, and I’ll definitely read book two when it comes out.
I enjoyed this book, as I’ve enjoyed most of the authors books. I do get slightly annoyed for no real reason every time the author drops a reference to one of his other books. Usually because it comes in the form of ‘this is like that one story I read with the guy on the Wild West world’ (or insert other story setting) I don’t feel like there is a need, nor does it add to the story, and instead breaks my immersion.
The plot is interesting, and I’ll definitely read book two when it comes out.
May 1, 2023
Another hit by Daniel Schinhofen
It seems like every book he writes is a hit. In this one, an Earth combat squad in the Middle East is accidentally quantum shifted to a different universe. The planet they're dropped on is home to a giant species of worms who proceed to destroy the squad, except for Zander. He alone manages to escape and get picked up by a privately owned mercenary ship whose 'Mecha' pilots are responsible for destroying the giant worms wherever they are found. Join Zander as he makes friends and enemies among the crew...and has lots of sex...
It seems like every book he writes is a hit. In this one, an Earth combat squad in the Middle East is accidentally quantum shifted to a different universe. The planet they're dropped on is home to a giant species of worms who proceed to destroy the squad, except for Zander. He alone manages to escape and get picked up by a privately owned mercenary ship whose 'Mecha' pilots are responsible for destroying the giant worms wherever they are found. Join Zander as he makes friends and enemies among the crew...and has lots of sex...
November 23, 2023
wonderful and fun read!
What happens if you get transported to an alternate universe?
What happens if you don’t have Ironman or Thor and their gang to help? If you are Zander, you decide to take charge and simply trade your space marines for alien fighters to make up your new unit. The fun is only beginning!
Great writing, interesting characters, lots of humor, quite a bit of sex as well (good to know humans might be compatible with even the strangest aliens). Lastly, if you drop into someone else’s universe, who is the alien? Them or you?
What happens if you get transported to an alternate universe?
What happens if you don’t have Ironman or Thor and their gang to help? If you are Zander, you decide to take charge and simply trade your space marines for alien fighters to make up your new unit. The fun is only beginning!
Great writing, interesting characters, lots of humor, quite a bit of sex as well (good to know humans might be compatible with even the strangest aliens). Lastly, if you drop into someone else’s universe, who is the alien? Them or you?
December 12, 2025
An excellent story (with some X rated scenes 🫣)
It is an interesting story, the characters are believable, and the shift in locations, the advanced AI, etc. are plausible.
Note: The explicit scenes are well done, but can be skipped past for those not interested; there aren't many. Also, the main character is interested in multiple potential partners.
Just FYI, as I'd only noticed the SciFi plot and didn't realize there would be adult scenes when I bought the book; there aren't any in the other series I've read from this author, so far.
It is an interesting story, the characters are believable, and the shift in locations, the advanced AI, etc. are plausible.
Note: The explicit scenes are well done, but can be skipped past for those not interested; there aren't many. Also, the main character is interested in multiple potential partners.
Just FYI, as I'd only noticed the SciFi plot and didn't realize there would be adult scenes when I bought the book; there aren't any in the other series I've read from this author, so far.
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